The story of the game through the eyes of the protagonist

[Utr_001]

I've always been attracted to the idea of creating stories based on my playthroughs of certain games, and so I finally decided to try and write something. It will be a LONG story, for more than one hundred pages I feel so. They will be gradually fit into the main google-doc file, where proofreading and editing will also take place (in real time, yes...). I hope you enjoy this story, even though some things will be a little different from the game (like out-of-character, but still accurate to the game).

Eynara and her story

Also the document is available for comments, and if you find any mistakes (English is not my native language, but I try to check grammar), feel free to mark these places. I will be very grateful to you

[Utr_001]

CHAPTER 1: Road to Greyfell

Eynara opened her eyes, taking a full breath. The world appeared before her in a soft haze of feelings, images, until it focused on the figure before her. A tall, gray-haired man, wearing a snow-white robe with a blue cloak behind him. His image thrust a name into Eynara's mind: Rohen, Mage of the Circle.
- Welcome back, my friend! - she heard his voice, which read kindness and joy, but she knew. Foresaw that what came next would be his will alone. His voice sounded further. - I know your memory might paled.... eight years is a long time.
8 years... Eynara realized in a flash that for all those eight years, she hadn't existed. But what had been before that? Memories came in scraps of faces, phrases, sounds, but everything was jumbled and mixed up with each other. She began to feel like she was falling, but the training of 20 years of service to the Circle Mages kept her from faltering. 20 years... yeah, that sounds about right.
– A lot has happened, – Rohen continued, moving closer to her. – The war is over, but its aftermath has left an indelible scar on the world... The Convocation tore it apart. All this time, I've worked tirelessly to repair the few that remain. But I have a feeling my time is closing in. The circle is closing... and these lands need a protector.
Eynara prepared to hear the order. As soon as Rohen finished his monologue, she was ready to obey it. Beyond that, her vision returned to her fully, revealing a small valley below with familiar ruins she couldn't identify. The wind gently swayed the branches of the nearby fir trees that grew around the Altar of Heroes, the place where the Rune Warriors were summoned. The place where she had been brought back from oblivion to do new orders.
– Let the power of the rune reawaken in you, – Rohen said, but before Eynara could do anything, he did the unthinkable: he came forward with his palm outstretched, on which lay... her rune. – But this time you will not be a slave to someone else's will. This rune contains your soul, forged in it. Wear it and be free to make your own decisions and your own destiny.
Eynara didn't believe it. She refused to believe it, but her eyes told her otherwise. And so did her senses. The other's will was no longer there. The Warrior reached forward unsteadily, then "stole" her rune from his palm. If she hadn't had the training, she would have fallen to her knees or run away.
– I... I'm free! – a reverent whisper escaped her lips.

Rohen looked at her with undisguised bitterness. With a realization of his own ambitions and past mistakes that had indirectly and directly brought Eynara, and every other Rune Warrior, to this moment. He turned around, about to leave and give her time alone.... but he had already foreshadowed that her solitude would not last long.
A man in chainmail armor ran out of the path that led from the Altar to the valley. Eynara saw him too, frantically hiding the rune as deeply as she could in her leather armor.
– Master Rohen! – The messenger was out of breath from running, but that didn't stop him from reporting. – The Order has sent me to bring you an important message! Something is happening in the Wildlands Pass, creatures of dark steel are advancing into the Northlands!
– The iron ones have come... – Rohan didn't seem surprised. – So it had begun. – Then he turned to Eynara, and she stood up involuntarily. – I'm going to see Darius, and you, my friend, must go to Greyfell. Messenger will take you there. In the city you will find my friend Sartarius. He belongs to the Order of Dawn, and will help you understand what is happening. Good luck, we'll meet again later, Rune Warrior.
At those words, Rohen's image began to refract like a mirage until it vanished into thin air like the smoke from an extinguished fire. Only Eynara and the messenger remained, looking at her in awe. A look so painfully familiar.
– By the Gods! He is really called a Rune Warrior! – Eynara could sense the fear of her in the messenger's words. And something else that eluded her.
– I... I don't remember much of this area, – she said, taking a hesitant step forward as if she'd re-learned how to walk. – How do I get to... to Greyfell?
– We need to follow the trail through the valley and the mountains, – the messenger replied, managing himself. – I will go with you. But the mountain pass is overrun with goblins and orcs, we'll have to be careful.
And with those words, they both set off. Eynara had no idea how difficult a path fate had in mind for her, but now she knew the first landmark: Sartarius and a certain Order of Dawn. The woman's hand kept checking the inner pocket of her armor: the rune was still there, warm and hard.

The descent down the valley to the ruins was silent. Eynara was not ready to talk to the messenger about any of the topics, not even to find out what was going on, and he was not eager to talk either. The woman was deep in thought, slowly rebuilding the vestiges of her memory.
The memories of childhood were the first to take shape, thanks to the soft wind and the rustle of grass and soil underfoot. The smiles of parents, friends, little mischief, games. But then came the darker memories, when an oversized horn beetle jumped out at Eynara with the messenger. Of course it was no match for the Rune Warrior, who was skillfully wielding the blade that had been on her belt all this time. Beyond the basic movements, however, Eynara couldn't remember anything. After all, training with Prashka had been so long ago.... Prashka... the first name from the past. Was he a friend or just a teacher? Eynara put that aside while she reconstructed a full picture of herself.
The path went on, to the old bridge over a cliff. It was only there that Eynara finally noticed that she could see the sea beyond the cliff. But... it shouldn't be there. It is much farther away, beyond the mountains and fields and forests. Where are these landscapes? Before she could get confused, a bridge guardian came out to them.
– Aonir’s Light! – He greeted them, holding a tall halberd in his hand. His iron armor resembled a wolf pelt. – Where are you going?
– To Greyfell, – Eynara answered. – Does this road lead to it?
– That's right, through the Shadow Pass, – the guard nodded. – It's the only way to our capital, House of Wulfgar.
Wulfgar. The name evoked memories of bygone battles alongside warriors against... someone else. Eynara had belonged to this House before... so long ago.
– But be careful on your way. The pass is called Shadow for a reason, and lately, goblins and orcs have started to attack there as well. You'd better use the Binding Stone that was at the Altar of Heroes. That's where you came from, isn't it?
The binding stones were special "anchors" for spatial magic. It allowed one to travel many miles, but only lightweight, meaning that only the mage and what they wore could be traveled. Spatial magic, even in its heyday, was not available to everyone, and now Eynara couldn't remember a single waypoint.
– Yes, we came from there, – she didn't tell the whole truth about herself. – But I don't remember the signs of the stone in Greyfell.
– I see, – the guard was content with what he heard. – Then Aonir will keep you safe!
Aonir, the All-Father. The Sun, the Eye of Aonir, has risen to its zenith in the sky. It gives life and warmth to all living things. Eynara bowed to the guardian and continued onward with the messenger, across the stone bridge.

As Eynara and the messenger moved along the road, they came across large spiders. Most likely they had a small den nearby and were hunting. But again, the fighting skills of the Warrior prevented them from tasting any drop of warm blood. Eynara tried to act on her own, keeping the messenger out of the fray, and he didn't mind much. The road went unevenly uphill, and here and there she could see rabbits hiding in the bushes, or even a deer behind the tree's shadows. But as they climbed the hill, Eynara saw a dark figure approaching.
At first she recognized him as a common wanderer in crimson fabrics, and had no time to react when magic flew at her. She was ice-crusted and immobilized. The messenger was untouched by the Dark One.
– Has the old man gone? – He turned to the messenger, and Eynara was ready to swear she knew that voice. Another Circle Mage?
– As you predicted, my Lord! – The messenger replied immediately, with a slight bow. – He left at once to the Wildlands Pass.
– Good, – the Dark One's voice became snakelike, coaxing. – The snare is slowly beginning to close. He will never return from there.
– Of course, but... – the messenger allowed himself to say, – What do we do with the Rune Slave, my Lord?
The messenger didn't know that Eynara could hear his words. Inside, beneath the crust of ice and armor, fear played, paranoia, but the training made itself felt again, suppressing the feelings and forcing to listen further.
– Kill it! – was the simple answer. – And then hand this chest, – the Dark One held out a wooden box from beneath his drill cloak, which the messenger accepted with trepidation, – to the leaders of the Black Fist. Here lay the plans for the invasion.
– I will, but my Lord, – he pleaded. – I can't compete with a Rune Slave! I'm just a messenger, not a fighter!
– I have every confidence in you, – the Dark One's smile that flashed beneath the hood was full of lies. – Give Black Fist the chest and you will be greatly rewarded.
The figure burst into laughter, and just like Rohen earlier, dissolved into a haze of air.
– But... – was all the messenger could manage to say.

Eynara felt the ice move, and then her cocoon crumbled and melted as if nothing had happened. The messenger looked back at her with a mixture of fear and pride.
– Fine then… die Rune Slave! – He exclaimed and swung his dagger.
And that was his last movement. Eynara's warrior reflexes kicked in instantly, before she even realized it. Her blade pierced through the messenger's armor and torso with ease. It was only when he grunted that the woman blinked.
First blood… first and not last… but now it's fully her decision.
– The River of Souls awaits... – she whispered to the dying man and shoved him away, freeing the blade.
He fell dead. And Eynara froze, feeling the sticky and still warm blood on her. The blood of a traitor, but blood. She heard footsteps and turned toward them, reflexively raising her blade.
– I'm at peace! – said the one who came up.
It was a man in a blue magical robe. There were no weapons in his hands, except for a magical orb that was attached to a small wand. Eynara did not immediately lower her blade.
– What happened here? – The magician asked a bit after.
– Betrayal... – Eynara exhaled, only now noticing her heavy breathing. – I need to get to Greyfell now.
– I'm afraid the shortcut is blocked by a camp of goblins and orcs, – he replied. And then she noticed a gleam in his eyes. – But there is the Runes Temple in the valley below. You can summon your warriors there.
Eynara gave the mage a pointed stare that didn't go unnoticed.
– Uh… I'm not one of those people who, uh…
– No, – she interrupted him, closing her eyes. – Later. Later...
She took the box from the messenger's corpse and walked down the slope toward the valley, where she could already see the Temple. Her mind, already full of what had happened, could not see clearly. She was simply walking, accompanied by an unknown mage who, surprise surprise, turned out to be a fan of the Rune Warriors.

Before approaching the Temple, Eynara stopped by a small, elongated lake. The mage did not disturb her, understanding the rules of privacy after all. The woman walked to the water and without undressing entered the lake up to her knees. The coolness of the water brought her to her senses a little. Eynara washed off the blood from her armor and blade with the usual movements and then washed her face. But she didn't stop for a second to see her reflection.
Eynara approached the Rune Temple. It was a tall statue of a human warrior in armor, carrying a spear and shield stared out at the world with a stone gaze. Around the statue were four decorative towers, and a small circle with a summoning icon and two empty flagpoles paved in front of it. The Warrior did not want to activate the Temple... her mind drifted back to a seemingly distant past, where she had commanded countless legions under the rule of the Circle Mages, leading them into battle against other Rune Warriors like herself. Or should someone say Rune Slaves.
– Rune Warrior? – She heard the question from the living man beside her, who looked at her with a look of incomprehension, but still with a gleam in his eye. He had met the legend in the flesh and was about to see the Power of Runes.
– I've been in oblivion for over eight years, – she answered, not immediately. – My memory is a little faded.
Eynara stepped closer to the Temple and finally laid her palm on its wall. The statue's eyes lit up, and blue banners appeared on the empty flagpoles. A moment later, by a familiar effort of the woman's will, the light from the statue's eyes began to beam down into the small circle. And then from the circle arose the first one.
The man stepped forward and looked around, studying the area. He was a simple worker, dressed in cloth, holding a multi-tool that could be used to chop wood and stone. He looked at Eynara and bowed politely.
- What are your orders, Rune Warrior? – he asked.
Eynara was silent. Her gaze was filled with the sadness of seeing it all happen again.
– Don't worry, Rune Warrior, – the Worker said suddenly, as if he understood her. – It's not the first time I've worked.
By then, a new man had emerged from the summoning circle. He was an exact copy of the first, for they were woven from the same soul captured in the small rune. The two workers looked at each other, accustomed to seeing themselves as reflections.
– Is everything all right? – The second Worker asked, seeing the hesitation.
– Yes, – Eynara replied with a sigh. – I just haven't used my power in a long time, don't worry. We need wood now. Three more will join you soon.
– Will be done! – they both answered at the same time, then bowed and went to the nearest trees.
The mage standing next to her looked on with undisguised admiration. And Eynara felt anger toward him. He wasn't a slave to the rune, he couldn't understand. The Warrior suppressed the feeling, it was not to be given in to.
– You'd better leave, – she snapped out.
She expected resistance, but for some reason the mage reacted differently.
– Oh, yes, of course! Hope to see you soon in Greyfell, Rune Warrior.
And with those words, he walked toward the Binding Stone, which looked like a large obelisk of raw purple stone. It stood just outside the Temple. Touching it, the mage disappeared. Eynara looked at it and then touched the stone herself. It glowed softly with aura and then faded again. A new coordinate popped into her mind: the Rune Temple of Human.

Further actions took place in the background and automatically. Workers, by that time there were already a dozen of them, brought resources: wood, stone, and the first buildings were constructed. The structures, like anything related to the rune forces' activity, were built quickly and with a minimum of features. In fact, they were empty inside, and served purely to improve the rune power of the Temple. The woodcutter's hut, like the quarry with the mine and hunters, allowed workers to become Craftsmen, improving their stats, adding the necessary tools for their work and some protective clothing, and allowing them to not waste time carrying resources to the Temple directly. Technical buildings were also constructed, as functional as the resource buildings: two forges, where two workers took the places of blacksmiths, a small headquarters, beautiful in appearance but giving only the opportunity to expand the pool of workers and warriors for food, and one shooting tower at the exit of the valley.
Eynara did not participate much in the process, only saying what needed to be built, while she went further down the road to scout the area. She was attacked by a bandit on the road near the edge of the forest. The conversation was brief. The blood had not touched Eynara as much, both externally and internally. She also took a habitual look at what the bandit had looted, finding only someone's folding goggles, obviously dwarven, and a dozen coppers with Mist Crystal. She moved the bandit's body deeper into the forest, into the power of nature.

As darkness fell, the first warriors were summoned from the Rune Temple. There were essentially two of them, but multiplied by ten. A Soldier, in full-body leather armor with a helmet and a short sword, and a Scout, in slightly lighter armor and a crossbow. At first Eynara moved with all twenty warriors further down the road to knock out the goblin camp, but then she remembered one important detail. Except for her, none of the warriors can see at night and that has always been a problem with humans. Sometimes it got to the point where one soldier could fight and the other, standing two meters away from that, couldn't make out what was going on.
– Ma'am, – one of the soldiers addressed Eynara. – We're waiting for morning, I suppose?
– Yes, – she replied, sitting down on the stump.
But Eynara, as a Rune Warrior, had no such problem. She could see at night as if it were daytime, albeit with a loss of some color orientation.
– Is something bothering you? – One of the scouts addressed Eynara. The other nine spears understood his intentions, but decided not to interfere.
– I don't want to control anyone..... – she answered honestly, but not immediately.
Her warriors glanced at each other.
– But still, we're standing here, – one of the soldiers said a little harshly. His nine copies nodded in agreement.
– Because the goblins have taken the pass, – the scout pointed out to him, sticking up for the Rune Warrior's decision. – There are too many of them for one Rune Warrior.
– As if she could die... – the soldier persisted.
– It doesn't matter, – the scout didn't back down either. – If the Warrior has decided she needs us, then that's the way it has to be.
Eynara did not interrupt them. Their conversation, lively and personal, warmed her soul, gently chasing away the sadness of controlling them. The manifestation of another's will, albeit fractured into small pieces, gave her strength. But she made sure she didn't accidentally silence them. Only when necessary.
The Warrior noticed movement in the undergrowth. She looked up and saw a goblin. He had obviously heard her warriors' little argument, but for some reason he had given in to curiosity. A crossbow bolt pierced the silence and then the goblin was gone for good. Eynara realized only a moment later that she had given the order.
– I'm sorry... – she tried to let go of her will, giving it back to the scouts and soldiers.
– It had to be done anyway, – one of the scouts supported her, placing a palm on her shoulder. – We understand.

Eynara couldn't sleep a wink. Not just because of her thoughts, but because of the power of her rune. Rune warriors could do without vital things for many times longer than ordinary creatures, not just humans. For example, they could go without breathing for a day, or run a hundred kilometers in a sprint and not drop dead. And warriors from the Temples didn't need anything but breath and blood in their veins. Eynara was grateful for this power at the moment, for she feared that once she fell asleep, everything would disappear and she would become a slave again. She clutched her rune in the pocket of her armor all night.
More than once during the night, goblin scouts approached her warriors' camp. Some made it away before Eynara saw them, some didn't. By morning, a familiar odor began to spread across the forest. Not malodorous yet, but attracting scavengers.
A silent command, and so the warriors, along with Eynara, marched on. The goblins were ready to meet them and the battle began. Eynara led each of her warriors, trying to put them at less risk, but it was not without deaths, the goblins did prove to be strong. But the death of a warrior was meaningless, the Temple could always summon a new one and he would go to the place of battle. The fallen one themselves dissolved into the earth without a trace.
During the battle, Eynara had memories from the past popping up every now and then. Some were useless, others were just the opposite. She remembered a simple spell to heal wounds, which she used immediately, so that one of the soldiers could continue the fight while on the verge of death. But the use of magic was taking its toll on Eynara's well-being, and she couldn't cast spells all the time.
Having defeated one camp, Eynara moved on, and now it was an orc camp. But not regular orcs, as she thought, but cave orcs. Unlike their brethren, the Cave Orcs were extremely stupid, even worse than the trolls, and even with a numerical advantage they too lost to a coordinated attack of trained warriors.
– Okay, – one of the soldiers who'd survived both battles said as Eynara paused for a breather. – I'll admit, it would have been hard to get through here alone.
– That's what I mean! – The scout grinned at him.
The quiet laughter and conversations after the battle warmed Eynara's tired heart again. Although, from the outside, the conversations between the identical copies seemed like a kind of dialog with yourself.

And then there was movement again, and Eynara's party came to the edge of the new forest beyond the pass. But suddenly the shouting and clanking of battle could be heard, and Rune Warrior didn't even have to order to run. Just around a rocky bend, a village was visible, where a skirmish was taking place, as it later became clear the locals were skirmishing with the cave orcs. And if Eynara hadn't gotten there in time, the villagers might have lost many.
Luckily the battle had been fought without loss of life, but many had been wounded. Eynara's warriors, whom she had mentally released from full control, were busy tending to their wounds. But she saw the looks around her. Disbelief, alienation, and fear. Even shunned her healing magic at first.
– Thank you! – Wilhelm, the chief of the village, thanked Eynara when she was free. In addition to joy, he was also a little puzzled. – You're a Rune Warrior, aren't you?
– Yes, it is, – Eynara mentally braced herself for the insults. Humans have never fawned the Rune Warriors, as they were the ones the Circle Mages “initiated” into Warriors most often.
– I never thought I'd welcome help from someone like you, – he said sincerely, and without malice. – If it weren't for you and your warriors, we'd be in trouble. I'll give those Greyfelll guards a hard time! Where are they when you need them?
- May I ask the way to Grayfel? - Eynara asked as he paused. – The road had been erased from my memory.
– There's only one road left, – he pointed behind him to the other gate of the village. – After the Catastrophe, I'm surprised there's anything left....
– Catastrophes?
Eynara could already see that the world had changed dramatically in her absence. Instead of a vast continent, only a large island remained, with some echoes from her past that she had partially remembered.
– What do you mean? – Wilhelm was surprised at her ignorance.
– I've been asleep for eight years, – Eynara replied.
– Eight years?.. Oh, – he realized what she meant. – Well, then you've missed a lot of things. Not that I know everything myself. Sartarius of the Order of Dawn can tell you more. The Order has a very positive view of your kind.
– I see, – the Warrior mentally noted to herself that she would ask Sartarius about everything. It was not for nothing that Rohen had mentioned him when he gave her rune.
When the residents' wounds were finished, Eynara gathered her warriors to move on. Despite their remaining distrust, the villagers now looked at her with gratitude. Before leaving, however, Wilhelm approached her again.
– There's a path further up the road into the mountains where those orcs came from. If you have time, could you clear them out?
Eynara stared at him. But she had already formed a picture in her head that cave orcs, unlike their intelligent counterparts, were a serious threat.
– I will... – she nodded, sighing.

The clear had gone... a little too smoothly. Just in case, Eynara left a couple of her warriors at the entrance to the cave so they could warn her in case of surprise.
Climbing the slope soon became climbing stairs. When the towers of the city walls became visible, Eynara stopped her troop. She didn't want the people in the city to think that enemies had come to them. Climbing up alone, she walked to the small square in front of the city gates. She was met by a few guards that let her through without question. Eynara couldn't help but realize that her squad had already been seen, and that few doubted her true nature anymore.
However, the city did not greet her with cold and fear. On the contrary. it was as if she didn't exist. Just another traveler from beyond the wall. It would have almost knocked the ground out from under her feet if she hadn't been approached by a familiar mage in blue robes.
– I'm glad to see you again! – His smile was genuine.
– I'm afraid I can't... – Eynara told him up front, taking a step to the side. – I need to talk to Sartarius.
– Yes, of course! I can take you to him, – he agreed at once. – He'll be glad to see you.
Happy to see? What kind of a caustic joke is that? But given that Sartarius was a friend of Rohen's… perhaps a welcome would be indeed welcome. A sudden thrust of her hand into the inner pocket. The rune is in place. It’s alright.
The cobblestone streets were full of life that didn't notice Eynara or her inner turmoil and fear. It seemed to her that a second more and the whole facade would collapse, dragging her down to hell. And the thoughts that still snatched scraps from the past only added fuel to this fire. If she'd been trained in the military…
But now they came to the inner square of the city. This place was like an area for military nobles, with a large plaza and buildings around it, only in the very center there was a tall, lonely tree with the Binding Stone still standing. But there was no pronounced military here, which calmed her thoughts somehow. The mage led Eynara further, toward a large building, with gilded roofs of two towers, that reminded Eynara of the main headquarters. From there, a tall man in bright armor of the color of dawn, came out to meet them.
– Master Sartarius! – bowed to the mage.
– Just Sartarius, please, – the man stopped him with a gesture. Eynara felt herself calming down around him... but she did not allow herself to let her guard down. Sartarius turned to her. – You must be the Rune Warrior that Rohen called?
So Sartarius already knows? Then it makes sense why she was let into the city so easily.
– Rohen's in danger, – Eynara got straight to the point. – I have to talk to him.
– He's already gone to the Wildlands Pass, – Sartarius answered her, slightly surprised. – What danger could the Circle Mage be in?
– With another Circle Mage, – the Warrior did not calm down.
– I beg your pardon? – Sartarius was taken aback.
– He crossed paths with me and your messenger above the Shadow Pass. The messenger betrayed you!
– Wait, – he raised his hand slightly. – Which Circle Mage are you talking about?
– He was wearing a dark hood, I couldn't make out his face, – she shook her head. – But he handed the messenger a box of records for the Black Fist leaders, – and handed it to Sartaria herself.
He took it in his hands, studying it. Until he realized what he had heard.
– The Black Fist? Impossible! Then it's...
Eynara did not hear him as she sensed the signal. The warriors left at the cave were under attack. They would not survive it. The Warrior stormed off, away from the square toward the gate, already taking control of her troop she left there.
– Rune Warrior, wait! – she heard Sartarius' belated shout.
And then a stomping sound beside her. When she looked around, she realized that the guards of the city had begun to run beside her. Or rather, members of the Order, judging by the distinctive armor. But that didn't matter. Her warriors at the gate already see the enemy approaching. The battle for the city had begun.

There was no tragedy, however. It was simply the arrival of a mob of cave orcs that, like a wave, crashed against the rocks in the face of both Eynara's warriors and the defenders of the city. However, Eynara couldn't exhale quietly yet.
– Is everything all right? – one of the Order's warriors approached her.
– Yes, – she answered automatically. – I'll go back to Sartarius.
Again the passage through the city, but this time it saw her now. There were whispers again, glances, but not angry ones. And that was what was most frightening. Back at the plaza, she was immediately met by Sartarius.
– Rune Warrior! – He walked over, looking at her anxiously. – Are you all right? – Eynara didn't answer, just stared at him. – You're covered in blood.
Eynara lowered her gaze. Indeed, she was covered in orcs' blood. Hence the looks and whispers.
– А... – she said simply.
– Um, uh... – Sartarius hesitated, as he hadn't expected anything like this. – Somebody get the Warrior some water to wash the blood!
– The ditch would do... – but Eynara remained standing still.
A basin of water was brought out and she quickly washed away the blood. But her head was still buzzing. Realizing her condition, she ordered her controlled warriors to return to the Temple. She was left alone with Sartarius again, unnoticed in his main office.
– So, uh… are you all right now? – Sartarius asked suspiciously.
– Yes, – she answered, almost falling into the chair he offered. – I've been asleep for a long time.
– Oh, that's right, – he agreed, sitting down across from her. A small wooden table separated them. – Uh… would you like something to eat? Or drink?
Eynara thought for a moment. She could use some food. She hasn't eaten in eight years after all...
– Please, – she agreed.
Soon there was a teapot and cups and plates of hearty food on the table. It was only then that Eynara realized how freaking hungry she was! If it hadn't been for manners and the stranger next to her, she would have swallowed the whole thing at once.
– You did well at the gate, – Sartarius decided to start the conversation when he assumed Eynara had had enough. – But I understand you have a lot of questions. I'll try to answer them all.
Eynara nodded, but couldn't say anything other than that for now:
– Someone should go after Rohen and warn him.
– Of course we will, – Sartarius glanced for a moment at the box that lay on his main desk. – It will also help us discover the contents of the box, for it is sealed with magic that only a Circle Mage can control.
– Then it should be brought by me, – Eynara concluded at once.
– Of course. Then you can consider this your first assignment with the Order of Dawn, if you like. But first you'll have to visit Darius in Lyanon, he's the only one who knows how to get to Rohen quickly.
Order of the Dawn. Eynara remembered that the world around her had changed.
– What is the Order of Dawn?
– The Order, founded by Rohen himself, is a new authority that seeks to create peace in a new age, – Sartarius replied proudly. – We are protectors, teachers, and creators, helping the new and remaining nations find a new footing. Even the races of darkness consider our cause an important task. But it is true that not everyone agrees to just help, for some it is not enough. We try to let in only those who truly seek to help others, sometimes without benefiting from it.
Eynara nodded. That was enough for now. Next question:
– What is Black Fist?
– They are thugs and bandits, mercenaries under Brannigan's command, – Sartarius replied with undisguised anger toward them. – They used to be no trouble, but recently they've become very strong and organized, as if someone had helped them. We've been trying to find out how this could have happened for a long time now, and if another Circle Mage is really involved.... may the Gods have mercy on us.
Eynara nodded. Black Fist is the enemy. Next... question...
– What happened in the last war?
Sartarius did not answer at once. It was as if he were choosing his words.
- During the War of Convocation, the ancient Elements trapped by Aonir burst from the bowels of Eo, and... and tore the world apart, killing the Circle Mages as well, – Eynara had heard this from Rohen. – As far as I know, all the continents turned to fragmented islands, and the Seas of the Elements engulfed the rest.
Eynara blinked.
– Islands?
– Yes. Thanks to the Godstones of Aonir around the world, not everything was lost to the Seas. All civilizations were cut off from each other, and only recently, with Rohen's return, have we been able to reconnect.
– How?
– Rohan built Portals on all the islands. Tall white arches through which you could cross to other islands. But Rohen didn't discriminate where he put the portals, uniting every land together, light and dark. That's why he created the Order of Dawn, to bring peace between the nations....
– Stop.
Eynara covered her face with her hands. The world... destroyed? How... is that... impossible?..
– Rune Warrior? – She heard a worried voice.
– No, please... – she almost begged not to hear those words again. – Just… Eynara…
– All right, Eynara, – Sartarius agreed, not realizing what was wrong with her.
Her head was torn apart by what she heard. The world that she almost remembered… no longer existed.

– Sartarius?
– Yes, Eynara? – he perked up. His voice sounded soft and kind.
Eynara put her thoughts together again.
– Do you have a spare room?
The question clearly puzzled the Leader of the Order. He had not expected something like this. But the man quickly found himself.
– Of course! There's always room for you! Follow me, please.
As they walked through the corridors, Eynara felt she was holding on to nothing but good words. The rush of emotions, the knowledge she had gained about the outcome of the Convocation, how the world had been swallowed up by the raging Elements and the world of Eo torn apart. The continents of Xu, Fiara, Urgat, Godland, Inenland... the three great seas: the Sea of Dreams, the White Sea, the Timeless Sea… west, south, north, east… everything she knew about the world was now dust. Only recently, Rohen, the last surviving Circle Mage, had returned and created Portals on most of the islands, tall white-white arches that connected the broken parts of the world. Except that he bound them indiscriminately, regardless of Light or Dark. And the Order of Dawn, which was also founded by Rohen's decree right after the Portals, was to become a new "bridge of peace" between all nations. As always, the Circle Mages have big plans for the little creatures, but at least Rohen was one of the "good" Mages. But there was another... A dark Circle Mage that wanted to finish the world off.....
And it all happened in those eight years of sleep... 8 years of oblivion… left in one world and woke up in-
Eynara came to her senses when they were at the open door to the room. She wanted to go inside, but she noticed a woman beside her, who looked like a servant.
– Ms. Gwen will help you... – Sartarius started to say, but Eynara just got burned.
– No! – she came sharply into the room and started to close the door as if to escape something. But she remembered to be discreet. – Thank you, but I can handle it. Just… leave me alone.
The door was locked, and Eynara leaned her head against it, gripping the patterned knob as if afraid she was about to be invaded. Through the door she heard a conversation.
– Is it definitely a Rune Warrior? – Gwen asked suspiciously.
– Gwen! – Sartarius was unhappy with the question, but did not raise his voice. – Eynara just needs to be alone and deal with what she's learned, – he said as they both started to leave. – But you should still visit her before tonight if she needs anything.
– I will, – Eynara heard her voice fading into the distance, a voice that read forced politeness.
And now she was alone. The Warrior slowly slid to the floor, feeling the dam inside her burst from the pressure. She let go of the floodgates and her consciousness was flooded with a murk of emotions, forgotten memories, resentments and hardships. She trembled with dry tears that hadn't flowed down her cheeks for so long. 20 years... or rather 28, since her “initiation” as a Rune Warrior. Eynara was alone.
The woman stood up, as if mechanically, and looked around. The room was spacious, almost lavish: a double bed with curtains, a large empty closet, a wide window overlooking a tree in the center of the Order's district square, a luxurious dressing table with a mirror. The mirror, a beautiful creation of dwarven hands, drew the most attention. Eynara walked over and looked at her reflection, finally remembering what she looked like.
Her shaved head, tattooed with symbols and lines that went down her back before her “initiation”. Brown eyes that still had life and determination in them no matter what. Her face was a little gaunt, as if Eynara hadn't eaten in a long time, but it was still alive and well. And inside still quietly bubbled emotions and thoughts, hidden behind the mask that had been worn all these 20 years... 28 years.
The Warrior turned away from the mirror, and finally removed her leather armor and sat down on the bed. It was soft and not as alien as it looked. Eynara lay down, and as soon as her head touched the pillow, she fell into a dreamless sleep. It was a long first day of a new chapter in her life.

[Utr_001]

CHAPTER 2: First day of life

When she opened her eyes, Eynara saw the wooden ceiling and the slats for the bed curtains in front of her. She didn't realize where she was at first, and began to replay the events in her mind until she remembered. She's in Grayfel, in the room Sartarius of the Order of Dawn gave her, and she needs to inform Rohen of...
The Rune.
The woman jumped up like scalded, looking for her armor with horrified eyes. It was lying on the floor where she had left it. Her fingers darted to the inside pocket and clattered painfully against the hardness. The rune was in place, her fingers and eyes hadn't lied to her. Relieved, she settled to her knees, clutching the rune to her chest like it was the only thing she valued.
A little calmer, Eynara stood up and first wanted to get dressed, but held her gaze on the mirror. In the reflection stood the simple woman that was a warrior. But for now it felt like something foreign, not quite right. Most likely because of the gaps left in her memory. For example, how old was she?
The number 21 came to mind. Well, that sounds about right, but she's probably older… 28 years older. So, if it wasn't for the “initiation” she'd be 49? Looking around herself in the mirror, holding the new number in her head, things started to come together. How strange now to see such a young herself at 49.
The thoughts were interrupted by footsteps outside the door. A quick glance at the lock confirmed that the door was locked.
– She's probably still asleep, – Eynara heard Gwen's voice outside the door. That was supposed to be the name of that maid yesterday.
– That doesn't mean she doesn't want to eat! – A younger female voice answered her. Another Rune fan or just energetic.
The words about food reminded Eynara of the need for it. The cooking here was generally excellent, judging by Sartarius's table last evening. Eynara threw a loose gown over her body so as not to embarrass the others with her full-back tattoo. Why had she tattooed it? Was it something important, or foolishness out of youth? It doesn't matter now.

– I wouldn't be surprised if she- – Gwen managed to say, when suddenly the lock of the door to the room clicked.
Both maids stopped as the door opened, revealing a Rune Warrior. But in such an ordinary form that the very definition of Warrior seemed out of place.
– Good morning, Rune Warrior! – Shala, the young maid, hurried to greet her.
– Eynara is better, – the shirtless woman told them simply.
– Oh, uh... okay, – the girl was a little taken aback.
– Master Sartarius, – Gwen cut in, maintaining a stern look, – asked to see how you were feeling. You were acting strangely last night.
– I'm fine, – Eynara nodded, wondering in her mind if anyone was worried about her at all. – I've just learned too much.
– So you, uh... really slept for eight years? – Shala inquired, and was promptly given a light slap on the wrist by Gwen.
– Forgive her, Rune… Eynara, - she corrected, with a slight bow of her head. - Shala doesn't know when to keep quiet.
– ...I understand, – Eynara didn't answer immediately, as she was not used to such liveliness around her.
– Anyway, – Gwen continued. – What kind of breakfast should we bring you?
– No need, – the woman shook her head immediately. – I'll go downstairs when I change, – she said, thinking for a moment. – Just tell me where to go.
– I can take you when!.. – Shala took a wide step forward, intending to enter the room.
Eynara put up a block with her hand, her face frozen, and Gwen immediately pulled Shala back by the scruff of her neck.
– Shala, you wicked girl! – It looked like sparks were about to fly, but she immediately turned to Eynara with a bow of her head. – Please forgive her. She's just recently started working and...
– It's all right, really, - she broke off. – There's no need to scold her.
– We'll leave you alone, – Gwen continued, dealing with Eynara's sudden reaction for her. – When you're ready, take the right staircase down to the lobby.
At that, both maids left, to the accompaniment of moralizing from Gwen to Shala. Eynara was left alone, with a double feeling: warmth from the manifestation of life, and a slight stupor from what had happened.

Eynara walked down the path, already wearing her leather armor and the blade at her belt. The rune remained in her inner pocket, safely hidden beneath the armor. In the lobby, the woman was met again by Gwen, who was the head maid after all.
– Pardon me for asking, – she said after Eynara had come downstairs. – But where do you want to have breakfast?
– You mean? – She didn't understand the maid.
– Not to be rude, but you don't look like a Noble, – Gwen continued bluntly, hinting at Eynara's status. - And you might find the dining hall too noisy. Sartarius has made it clear that you need some peace from the worries right now, so that's why I'm asking.
– Nice of him... – Eynara said involuntarily, then returned to the topic of conversation. – I don't really care where to eat. I can eat on the street under the...
– No way, – Gwen immediately answered her insistently. – I will not tolerate the guests of the court eating outside. I can offer you the kitchen or the people's room.
– The people's room? – Eynara looked puzzled for a moment before she remembered that it was just a servants' quarters. – Yes, I can eat there.
– Then please follow me, - the maid invited her to follow. – You can tell me what you would like to eat on the way.
Eynara followed her, feeling a bit like a blind dog that follows the familiar scent of a master. Master... yes, she will be stumbling over that for a long time from now.

Breakfast was an unexpected challenge for Eynara. Not only because hunger was again trying to make her swallow everything at once, but also because of the stares around her. The servants and maids looked at Eynara with a mixture of looks: some were surprised that the Rune Warrior had chosen to eat in such a down-to-earth place, others didn't know if it was possible to approach the Rune Warrior to ask something, to be curious, and there were those who were frightened by her presence.
Rune Warrior. It was a notorious title that fell at the back of Eynara's throat. It was a powerful status, but on the other hand the War of Convocation had stained it with blood and pain. Especially among humans.
When Shala came along, however, things became easier. Gwen wasn't around to berate her, and the girl was genuinely interested in Eynara's life, not just as a Rune Warrior. The woman did her best to answer her, but honestly admitted that she didn't remember much about herself, which made Shala genuinely sympathetic. Thanks to the young maid, the other staff began to feel more at ease in Eynara's presence, already understanding a little of who she was.
– I never thought I'd see a Rune Warrior in this form, – Eynara heard someone whispering away.
– She's not so scary, it's true, – another whisper answered.
– Cease! – Gwen hissed at them, who was obviously on her way to check on Eynara.
In the presence of the head maid, all the staff immediately hurried back to their work. Especially Shala, who had time to say goodbye to Eynara.
– Master Sartarius asked you to come to him, – Gwen said to Einara when she had finished eating. – I will take you to him.
– All right, – Eynara nodded, picking up the plates.
– You don't need to... – the maid interjected, surprised at the warrior's actions.
– I don't mind, – Eynara said simply.

After the kitchen, Eynara was escorted to Sartarius's study. More awake than yesterday, she was able to appreciate the room's furnishings: in addition to the table and armchairs she had already seen, which were clearly made by master craftsmen, there was a magnificent wooden bookcase with a couple of compartments for storing scrolls, a tall table with carved lion's heads on the legs, on which some writing materials and maps were placed, and a wide window that looked out from the wall of the building, creating a perfect window sill for all sorts of things and cushions. This window sill gave Eynara a fleeting vision of sitting on one just like it, listening to the birds singing and feeling the spring breeze on her face.
– Good morning, Eynara, – Sratharius was pleased to see her. – How are you feeling after your sleep?
Of course, he already knew the answer, it was not for nothing that he had sent Gwen to check on her, but apparently it was the manners of communication.
– I'm fine, – Eynara answered, putting her hands at the seams. – Thanks for letting me sleep over.
– Oh, no, no! – Sartarius faltered, – It was a self-evident decision! You don't have to consider yourself indebted in this, – he smiled sincerely, though inwardly he still didn't fully understand her. Which gently turned him to another topic. – Actually, I wanted to apologize to you. Yesterday wasn't the easiest day for you, considering your ''sleep,'' so then I added the latest news about the world and....
– It's all right, – Eynara hastened to say. – You did what you thought was right. And I would have found out sooner or later, but now I had a place to digest everything in silence, and I'm grateful to you for that, - she bowed softly to him.
– Oh, no! – he was pleasantly embarrassed. – You are our guest! I could not do otherwise.
Saratrius made a sign forward, inviting Eynara to sit in a chair, taking the second one himself. Once both were seated, they got down to the essentials.
– We discussed yesterday that you would have to travel to Lianon and talk to Darius, – Saratrius began, handing Eynara a double folded sheet of paper. – I have written a permission slip for you that will tell the guards at the gate to let you through to the portal, it is in the northeast of the city. I've also taken the initiative to get you some new armor and weapons and to equip you with everything you need for the journey.
Eynara nodded, but inside she felt the same feeling: master preparing a servant. And no, new armor and weapons are always useful, especially considering her current ones, but...
– Thank you, Sartarius, – Eynara nodded to him gratefully. – But I would like to choose for myself what I need.
Sartarius blinked, again not expecting this turn of events.
– Uh... of course you can choose for yourself, – he tried to find himself in his new surroundings. – Our armory is full of...
– Excuse me, – she said again. – I'd like to go to the market. I... – she squeezed her shoulders imperceptibly. – I'd like to have my own.
– Yes! Uh... yes, of course, – Saratrius agreed with her choice. – But let me give you some savings at least.
Eynara thought for a moment. Since yesterday she had only a few coppers in her purse: about 22 from the bandit and 58 from the goblins and orcs, and a mist crystal that could be sold for 34 coppers if she managed. So, if the 100 to 1 face value hasn't changed, Eynara now has 1 silver and 14 coppers. Not much...
– I'll try to pay you back when I can, – she agreed to the financial help.
– You don't have to pay us back! – Sartarius reassured her. Though Eynara decided that she would pay it all back later anyway. It was her choice.

Sartarius, however, still insisted that Eynara be accompanied on her trip to the market. She had been against it at first, but then, thinking about the fact that she was in a foreign city, didn't know the local customs, and had already had a bit of a panic attack yesterday, a companion didn't seem like such a bad idea. She only asked that it be someone she knew.
Gwen's senior maid and Randolf, the blue-robed mage she had met after the messenger's betrayal, had been chosen. And strangely enough, both of them went with Eynara: Randolf was happy to accompany the Rune Warrior, and Gwen, besides the routine purchase of groceries, went to supervise the absent-minded admirer.
Thus Eynara found herself once again on the streets of the city. And again it paid no attention to her, though a couple of glances did flicker in her direction, which was no surprise after her orc-blooded passage through the streets yesterday. Einara felt the growing unease about her invisibility again, but this time it was muffled by the talkative Randolf and the indefatigable Gwen.
At the market, which was on the hilltop of the town, the trio had to split up. Gwen had to go the other way, and Eynara stayed with Randolf. But not for long, as the Warrior deliberately moved away from him, she didn't want to walk next to her admirer.
The market was a very busy place, it seemed, anytime and anywhere. The shouts of vendors, the stomping of feet on the sidewalk, the creaking of wooden carts, the many smells, from food to metal and even magical powders. Einara walked carefully, so that she wouldn't bump into anyone, and so that she wouldn't be so actively solicited to see the goods. So she wandered until she stopped at a weapons stalls.
– Greetings to a fellow soldier! – A short man, who was more peddler than swordsman, came out to her. – Allow me to offer you some wonderful blades and!..
Einara didn't listen to him, assessing the blades by sight. Memory obligingly brought out from the darkness of oblivion the details of weapon-making, telling what blades are good and what are not. And judging from memory, the merchant's selection was extremely sparse for her needs.
– Can I check it out? – She fixed her gaze on one of the swords.
– Of course! Excellent choice! – The peddler was sure she was about to buy it. – Damascus steel! You won't find better anywhere else!
He continued to praise the blade, but Einara already realized that they were just words. The blade was definitely not Damascus, for there were no distinctive patterns or coils. And when she took it in her hand, she immediately felt an imbalance, as if the metal of the blade had gathered in two places and then spread out. Einara didn't even bother to test it out.
– Are you trying to sell junk again? – she heard another male voice nearby, stronger and tougher.
– You're the junk! – The peddler got angry, and then immediately started sucking up to her. – Don't listen to him, warrior! This fool is not!..
– It's just trash, – Einara cut him off as she put the blade back down.
The peddler was at a loss for words, gradually turning redder with anger. Meanwhile, Eynara had moved on.
– Wait, – the man with the strong voice called out to her. – Do you still want the blade?
– Do you want to sell it? – she clarified, turning to him over her shoulder.
– Show it to you! – he said firmly. And that firmness was strangely credible, and Eynara agreed to go with him to his shop.

Arnar's shop, which was the man's name, was also a small repair shop. Arnar's main specialty was the armor that hung at the entrance, showing off his skills, and minor repairs or adjustments. Despite the confined space, there was a small anvil with a stove and a work table with many important tools. At the sight of this Eynara was a little puzzled, what kind of blade was Arnar going to show her?
– Here! – He came out to her, holding a longsword in both hands.
Eynara immediately realized that what she was looking at was not a simple ironwork. The smooth edge of the blade, the patterned yet practical leather hilt. Everything about this sword spoke of the skill of its maker. There was only one problem...
– This sword... – before Arnar could begin to speak.
– I apologize, – she put her hand on Einar's heart guiltily. – But I can't use it.
– W-what? Why? – The blacksmith was stunned.
– I was trained in light blades, – she lifted her blade from her belt. – And two-handed swords are not for me.
– But wait, at least take it in your hand. Give it a chance, – Arnar was clearly insistent, but he already understood the reasons for refusal.
Eynara agreed and took the sword in her hand. It was lighter than she thought it would be, but it was still two-handed, that is, long. She tried a few movements with it, even in the cramped confines of the shop, but those movements were just the thing to show that it wasn't right for her.
– A fine weapon, but not for me, – she shook her head, returning the sword.
– Yeah... – Arnar stretched out. – Well... then I can offer new armor for you. You can choose any one you want, and I'll vouch for each one personally.
Eynara looked around. There were many good choices, but most of them were for heavy warriors, and mobility was more important to her. And so she saw a beautiful ringed quilt. The beige fabric had a flaming pattern on it that could be mistaken for a coat of arms. The set also came with leather gloves.
– How much does this kit cost? – Eynara asked, preparing to calculate the expenditure.
It should be said that Sartarius had tried to give her a lot of money, but she had agreed to take only 1 gold, which, after repeated persuasion by Sartarius, had been given as 100 silver. So Eynara expected that the bulk of the money would be spent on this armor.
– I'll give it to you for free, – she heard the reply.
– Pardon me? – Eynara turned sharply to Arnar, not believing her ears.
– Thanks to you, my son and his family have seen a new day, – Arnar answered her calmly. – Yesterday your warriors saved them from the orcs from the mountains, and that means a lot to me.
– But I... – Eynara didn't know whether to run or stay where she was. In the end, stupor won out.
– I don't care who you are, – the blacksmith continued. – Your deeds tell me more. And I can't help but thank you. You can't change my mind about that.
Eynara froze, not knowing what to say. She was embarrassed to accept such a gift, especially in such a way. Didn't Arnar care who she was? Yes, it just so happened that his son and his family survived yesterday, but...
– I'm sorry... – she finally said. – It's hard for me to understand...
– I suggest you just take it, – he winked at her.

Eynara agreed to take the armor, but she still felt guilty. Especially when Arnar had convinced her to change her old armor for a new one, he had given her a space in the workshop, which he had covered from all sides with a screen. The warrior stood with the chainmail in her hands, still hesitant to put it on.
But now she did. At first she carefully took out her rune from her inner pocket and thought about putting it in her mouth for safety, but realizing her foolishness she put it in her purse, which she did not let out of her hands. The chain mail slipped on smoothly and without reproach, and almost sat on her as if it had been made to fit. Eynara tried the movements, even pulled out her blade to be sure: the armor obeyed her body in every way, and was hampered only by the unfamiliar clattering of the chain links.
– Arnar, have you heard the news? – Eynara suddenly heard a woman's voice from behind the screen.
– Which one, Nedim? – Arnar asked her, with a slightly joking tone.
– About the fact that this woman, the Rune Slave, now lives in the Order!
Eynara quietly squeezed the purse in her hand tighter.
– Don't you dare call her that! - Arnar changed in an instant. – She is a Warrior! And if it weren't for her, my son would be dead!
– She could have saved him even three times, she's a monster! – The woman's position was clear.
Eynara knew she had to leave, and she had to leave now, not wait for the woman to go further into the workshop. While the argument was heating up, she stepped out of the shelter of the screens, which was a mistake.
– It's her! – Nedim recognized her immediately. – Why are you here?!
– I invited her! – Arnar put in a word. – And stop yelling.
– How much do I owe you? – Eynara simply asked while she had the chance.
– My decision still stands, the chain mail is yours by right, – the blacksmith answered her immediately.
– Are you gone mad?? – Nedim was furious. – How did it occur to you to give her something for nothing??
Einara wanted to run away, but the way was blocked, and Nedim was not going to calm down. The stream of insults, prejudice, and anger poured like a river into the small workshop, and it seemed like it wouldn't end. Until Arnar finally burst.
– SILENCE! – he ordered Nedim, and Eynara involuntarily shrank back in her shoulders. Silence finally hung, trying to soften the atmosphere, but the heat was hard to extinguish. And so Arnar finally spoke up. – Twenty silver. – And before Nedim had a chance to be indignant, he added loudly. – I said so! Period!
Nedim waved her hands in disbelief and left the walkway, which Eynara took advantage of.
– That’s what you get for trying to help a person... – Arnar said irritably.
– She's not a person, – Nedim said stubbornly and deliberately loud.

Eynara did not hear their new argument, leaving 30 silver pieces on the counter, for the chain mail was clearly worth much more than 20.
Eynara walked through the marketplace with a wan look. Yes, in her new chain mail, but there was a residue inside.
Nedim is right. She is a monster. A slave of the Rune, that at the behest of her masters the Circle Mages did truly terrible things, even if they didn't touch ordinary people directly. Nothing would ever change or undo that, and it would never leave her memory, even after eight years of oblivion. But, God, it hurts so much! It always hurts! Eynara sighed. She would always be seen as an instrument of destruction...
She looked around and realized she had entered the magic section of the market. Well, that wasn't so bad. Though she might run into Randolf again. Strange that he's not looking for her. Or maybe he is, who knows?
Unlike the usual market sections, here the merchants were not soliciting, and the customers walked around looking thoughtfully at the many scrolls, scepters, magical spheres – like Randolf's – and other magical jewelry.
Eynara remembered that she had used healing magic yesterday, which meant she had a predisposition to the White School and should find a shop of that school. But her memory couldn't tell her anything, and she wandered from shop to shop like a blind kitten, trying not to draw attention to herself. Though the Warrior would always stand out from the Mages. But now she noticed a slightly different look on her face: she was being scrutinized, and she couldn't understand why, which was understandably frightening.
– Looking for something? – One of the mages who was selling scrolls of spells from the Black School approached her.
– I want to find a teacher of White Magic, – Eynara answered him.
Magic merchants, she remembered, were called teachers, because it was not enough to buy a spell scroll, you had to learn it.
– You'll find this closer to the entrance to the magic market, – he pointed out to her, but he didn't hurry to let her go. – You're a Rune Warrior, aren't you?
– That's right, – Einara didn't hide, though she didn't want to bring it up now.
– I've never seen anyone like you with magical tattoos, – he said thoughtfully. – Do you need a boost?
– I beg your pardon? – She didn't quite understand him.
– Your tattoos on your head, which probably go further down your back, are shaped like magical straight lines, – he answered. – That kind of tattoos you have are usually put on the bodies of battle mages under Wulfgard. A kind of insignia.
So that was what those tattoos were. It was as if a very deep buried layer of memory had opened up that Eynara still couldn't quite make out, but now its nature was clear, especially its connection to the House of Wulfgar.
– Ah, so that's what it is, – she said. – I've forgotten a lot of things in eight years of sleep.
– Oh, – the mage sighed understandingly. – I see. I hope your memory returns to you in one piece.
– Thank you, – she bowed softly to him.
Eynara returned to the beginning of the magic market, where she found the White Magic shop. But she had nothing to buy there now, except a scroll of power aura for the future. Her memory told her that she knew the spell already, but repetition was the mother of learning, as they say.

While Eynara was talking to Rodan, the “teacher” of white magic, she noticed an anxious man in the crowd. He seemed to be trying to solve some very serious problem, on which his well-being literally depended. Those passing by only accompanied him with sympathetic glances.
– Who is this man? – Eynara decided to ask Rodan.
– He is Gabar, disciple of the Master Sorcerer Tanadar, – he replied calmly. – I can't say that Gabar was worthy of being a disciple, but he has a talent for magic.
Eynara nodded. After thinking about it for a bit, she decided that she wanted to help Gabar if he was really in trouble.
– Greetings, – she approached him.
– What?... ah, greetings... – Gabar answered, confused. – Excuse me, I... I'm busy. Very busy...
– Can I help you? – Eynara continued.
– What? Uh... no, I... though... – he hesitated. – You see, Master Tarandar... he's always giving me almost impossible tasks. And now he's demanded to find his glasses, which someone stole from him! I... I don't know where to find them. and buying new ones isn't an option either, because his glasses are custom-made by dwarves and!..
– Dwarves? – Eynara questioned.
And her hands were already reaching into her pockets. Yes, the glasses she had found on the bandit yesterday were just right by her. She thought of trying to sell them first, but what if it was them?
– Are those them? – She showed them to Gabar.
Gabar froze, as if focusing on reality, and then glowed with joy.
– Yes, yes, they are! Oh glory to Aonir, you are my savior! – he gently took the glasses back. – Finally I can... ah, no, no I can't yet! I forgot...
– Did Tarandar give any more assignments? – Eynara asked worriedly.
– What? Uh, no, I... – he hesitated. – I broke his magic quill, and... I still haven't found a replacement.
– Is it that rare? – A slight suspicion crept into Einara's mind.
– Insanely rare! This quill was created only by the Circle, or the Talindian Guild. All the mages in the world were ready to snatch it up as soon as a copy of it was seen somewhere!
– Uh... – Eynara strongly considered whether she wanted to help look for some quill, especially if it involved Circle Mages. But on the other hand... – I'll try to look for one while I'm on my way, but... I can't make you any promises.
– I understand, but if you succeed, remember me, – Gabar folded his hands together as if in prayer, so desperate was he to find one.
At this they parted. Eynara thought seriously about the task, but realized she couldn't complete it overnight. And this was her first personal assignment..... yes, it was worth it. She had promised herself not to let Gabar down, but she still remained realistic.

Deciding that her preparations for the long journey were complete – although she knew in her heart that this was not the case, but also she knew how to survive in the wild, as her memory told her – Eynara went to look for her companions. First of all, Gwen, since she would certainly need help carrying provisions, and, let's face it, she liked her better than Randolf.
Finding Gwen wasn't hard. Her confident and firm voice was easy to hear even in the noisiest crowd. Eynara saw her near one of the fruit stalls, where she was zealously bargaining with an old merchant. However, as she got closer, it turned out that they were exchanging news more than trading.
– So the Rune Warrior really lives with you? – asked the merchant.
– She only spent one night with us, - answered Gwen. – And she's already getting ready to leave. But she's... so strange.
– Why?
– She doesn't look like a Rune Warrior, – answered Gwen honestly. – That is, she behaves... like a human.
– Hah, why shouldn't she act like a human, if she is a human? – the merchant chuckled, and Einara realized that she had already been noticed.
– I mean, she acts too ordinary, and besides, she doesn't use her status at all, like some of the nobility, – Gwen continued.
– That's great! It's less trouble for you, Gwen.
– Well, I don't know, Dana... – Gwen sighed. – On the contrary, it seems to me that...
– And here she comes, – Dana instantly switched everyone's attention to Einara, not letting her just remain silent. – We are glad to see you at our market, Rune Warrior.
– Just Eynara is enough, – the Warrior smiled at her. – I won’t interfere?
– Oh, not at all! – Dana continued, while Gwen was quietly “dying” from shame. – We were just bargaining about the apples. My thirty silver coins are still valid.
– I can...
– Forgive me, Dana, – Gwen suddenly perked up, finding an old topic of conversation, – but I won't take more than twenty-five for the basket.
– You'll let me make peace! – Dana bristled, but with a smile on her lips. – I won't give it less than twenty-nine.
– Twenty-seven, and that's my last word! – Gwen didn't back down either.
Although Eynara understood that this was a feigned argument, looking from one to the other, she wanted to intervene and stop it. But the market itself had seen this scene more than once and everyone knew that this "war" always ends with smiles on both sides.
– Okay, okay, – Dana raised her palms up, – you win, Gwen. Twenty-seven for the basket. How much did you say you needed?
– Five, – she reminded her.
While Dana was choosing the best apples, Gwen was finally able to look at Eynara and check how she was.
– I hope you haven't gotten into debt? – Gwen definitely meant the chainmail.
– Arnar... – Eynara fell silent for a moment, remembering the quarrel. – He wanted to give it to me for free, because yesterday I saved the village near the city, where his son lives. But Nedim came and... anyway, he sold me the chainmail for thirty silver.
– I’m afraid to even imagine what kind of fuss Nedim made, – Gwen said with understanding, rolling her eyes. - She is Arnar's second wife and has never been known for her soft voice. Don't take her words personally.
Eynara only sighed at this. By this time, five baskets of apples had already been collected, and Dana also called the three boys who worked here as porters. They managed to take one of the baskets each, when Einara reached for the remaining two.
– Eynara, you!.. – Gwen almost protested, but the Warrior had already lifted both baskets onto her shoulders.
– It's not difficult for me, – was her answer.
The people at the market looked at her with admiration and bewilderment at the same time. And the boys simply opened their mouths. And the next moment a small catastrophe happened. Eynara managed to feel how someone was quickly climbing up her back, and since it was unexpected, the Warrior lost her balance and one of the baskets flew onto the pavement. The troublemaker turned out to be a three-colored smooth cat, who simply grabbed one of the apples in her teeth and, as if nothing had happened, jumped down and ran away to the general laughter around.
– What a piece of!.. – Dana almost cursed, clutching her head. – Why that apple, of all things?? Oh Gods!
Einara couldn't help but smile, although she became one of the reasons for the laughter around. After all, laughter brought back from oblivion the memory of how she entertained her comrades in the barracks, showing them various tricks, especially juggling apples, which did not come easy to her.

With a new basket, now carried by Gwen with the gaze of a lion, the whole group headed back to the Order. While they were walking, Randolf finally caught up with them.
– Gods, Rune Warrior! – he managed to exhale, – I was afraid that...
– Shut! – Gwen interrupted him, thrusting a basket of apples into his hands. – Better hold and carry!
The mage did not argue, seeing her irritation.
When they came to the familiar square and stopped at the building where all the Order's provisions were stored, Eynara decided to put her memory of juggling into practice. The porter boys were delighted with her skill, even though she almost dropped one of the three apples a couple of times. Gwen did not like it, but she did not say anything, and Randolf simply did not understand anything.
– I see you had a great time, – Sartarius approached them when the boys had already left.
– I'd better go to work, – Gwen immediately left on business.
– Yes, everything went better than I thought, – Eynara said with a smile remaining.
Randolf only nodded, not daring to say that he lost sight of the Rune Warrior right after.
– Eynara, – Sartarius continued. – I understand that perhaps you consider our help... well, maybe not as a hindrance, but as something strange, but allow me to offer you the necessary resources that may be useful to you on the way.
This time Einara did not argue, thanks to the elevated mood. Together with Sartarius, – Randolf decided to leave for now on business, – they went to his study, where some things were already waiting for Einara. Einara noticed a duffel bag, which obviously contained provisions, several scrolls, which turned out to be blueprints for the development of the Human Base at the Rune Temple and were very useful, as well as...
Einara was holding someone else's rune in her hands. Another Warrior. She looked up at Sartarius, who again did not understand the problem.
– How long have you had him? – she asked him, clearly hinting at the soul trapped in the rune.
– Um... not that long ago... – Sartarius hesitated, not knowing the answer. – But I thought that...
– Sartarius... – Einara interrupted him. She sighed heavily. – Who are we to you?
He opened his mouth, but a thought managed to flash in his eyes. He looked away, slowly thinking. However, before he could do anything, Einara felt a signal from her warriors at the Temple. Someone had come to them. Not hostile. She ordered not to touch the unknown person unless it showed a threat. And at that moment, something dawned on her.
– Oh Gods... – she breathed out. – The Rune Temple is still active! I must run!
– Einara! – she managed to hear Sartarius as she flew out of his office. – The Binding Stone is on the parade ground!
Right! There is a stone at the Temple too, it will shorten her path in an instant! She ran so fast that she almost knocked down a couple of servants on the way. Running out into the street, she ran to the Binding Stone under a lonely tree, and touching its surface with her palm, she instantly found herself in a different place.

Once at the Temple, Eynara was greeted by the familiar landscape of the valley from yesterday. But now it had changed: instead of a beautiful forest near the mountain and the lake, low stumps stuck out, the stone pile and the iron vein were erased to the ground, and the once living nature – deer, rabbits, even birds – had gone away.
The craftsmen worked tirelessly and without reproach for two days, squeezing out all the possible resources they could reach. Now only the hunters stood idle, as well as the soldiers and scouts. Until Randolf came, disturbing the warriors.
Eynara gave the command to stop, and everything instantly froze. All the craftsmen left their places, becoming simple workers again, the warriors... remained idle. And the Warrior continued to look at what, through her fault, happened to the once living valley. And so it always is. Wherever the Rune Warrior goes, there is always the sapped dry land and deserts...
– It's incredible, – she heard Randolf's voice. There was awe in it – Rune Warrior, your...
– Randolf, open your eyes! – she finally snapped at him, so much did he irritated her with his worship of her status. – What do you see? A bare, completely ruined valley, where only empty walls and echoes of souls remain! There is nothing incredible here! Only desolation and devastation! How can you not see it?
– But... – he tried to get a word in.
– Do you think I can return these resources? – Eynara continued. – Do you think I can just go and pull out of the Temple everything that it took in? Wood, stone, iron, even the food we got, all of this can no longer be returned! Or should we leave these buildings for others? There is nothing in them! You can't even enter them! And they will melt as soon as I extinguish the Temple rune! There will be nothing left here! Nothing!
She wanted to say something else, but she didn't have the strength to scream.
– But, Rune Warrior...
– Enough! – she cried, piercing him with her gaze.
The warriors wavered, reaching for their weapons. Even the workers prepared to use their tools for evil. But Eynara had enough fortitude to suppress this thought and everyone calmed down again.
– Go away, – she said firmly and imperiously.
Randolf wanted to object. But no argument came to mind. And he retreated, leaving the valley through the Linking Stone. Left alone, Eynara went to the wall of the Temple and leaned her back against it, sitting down on the ground with a heavy sigh.
– Is our task accomplished? – one of the soldiers asked her.
– Yes ... – she answered after a while, looking at the ground.
– Should we lie down? – one of the scouts asked.
– What difference does it make? – the soldier glanced at him. – We'll disappear anyway.
– Less falling, – was the answer.
Eynara closed her eyes. The will spread across the valley, everyone sat down where they were. And now only the wind was walking around. She opened her eyes, and now she was truly alone. The rune buildings gradually crumbled, also leaving only emptiness. The Rune Temple stood waiting again, extinguishing the statue's eyes and dissolving the flags, but Eynara hoped that she would not activate it again.

After a while, Eynara returned to the Order. Business does not wait, regardless of her mood. Sartarius was already waiting for her at the entrance to the headquarters. And before the conversation began, he quickly put something in her hand, as if something significant.
It turned out to be a purse. Her purse, where she hid her rune. Fear pierced Eynara's consciousness... and also sincere gratitude when she looked at Sartarius.
– You dropped it when you ran out into the street, – he began to say. – When I realized what was inside, firstly, I didn’t let anyone lay a finger on your rune. And secondly... I thought about your question. I have always considered you… the Rune Warriors as those to whom the world has given extraordinary opportunities. But I rarely thought that you... are ordinary people like us. And although I still... think the same way, I am ready to change.
Eynara couldn’t find anything to answer him other than a simple one:
– Thank you...
And so, when Eynara got ready to go, she went to the northeastern gate. There weren't many travelers going that way, so she went alone. At the gate, a guard stopped her.
– The road is closed! Lianon has been declared a war zone, access only with passes! – he said sharply.
– I have a pass, – Eynara handed over the prepared letter.
– Hm, – the guard took it, looked it over quickly. – Wait here.
He left, while another guard took his place. He was gone for some time, and when he returned, the gates behind him began to open.
– You may pass through. The gates will always be open for you, – he returned the letter to her.
– Thank you, – Eynara bowed softly, putting the letter away.
Behind the gates, she was met by a high cliff in the Sea of ​​Elements, and at its very edge, a Portal. As Sartarius had described, it was a high and wide snow-white arch, at the top of which a large blue crystal shimmered. Inside the arch, a transparent white surface pulsated, like reflections of the sea below.
Assessing the size of the arch, Eynara compared them to ordinary gates, through which three heavily loaded carts could easily pass. It was strange to see this place empty, because it was assumed that many people would use the portal.
Approaching the transparent surface, Einara carefully touched it with her palm. She did not feel any resistance, and her palm passed right through. The hand was not visible behind the surface. With a slow breath, Eynara took a courageous step forward.